Revised training and assessment products now available for the construction industry

Words: Jennifer WilkersonNCCER, the leading standardized training and credentialing program for the construction industry, recently revised its Construction Craft Laborer Level 1 and Level 2 curricula as well as its Hydroblasting Technician assessment and Performance Verification.

Construction craft laborers perform a variety of crafts and operate many types of tools, instruments and equipment as they travel to different jobsites. The Construction Craft Laborer curriculum introduces trainees to a variety of trades, including carpentry, masonry, ironworking, electrical, welding, heavy equipment and cranes. Upon completion of this two-level course, trainees will have the basic knowledge needed on any job site. The curriculum covers subjects such as site layout, reinforcing concrete and electrical safety.

The third edition of Construction Craft Laborer includes a new instructional design complete with a printed Instructor's Copy, lesson plans, classroom activities and PowerPoint presentations. Instructors can also download digital versions of these items from the Instructor Resource Center. Lesson plans include step-by-step instructional outlines, learning objectives, teaching times and tips, safety considerations and equipment lists. PowerPoint presentations are fully integrated with the lesson plans and feature images and diagrams that have been updated to exemplify the most current industry practices with an additional emphasis on safety. To address green construction practices, the revised edition of Construction Craft Laborer Level 2 includes NCCER's Your Role in the Green Environment, which was recently updated to LEED v4 standards.

In addition to Construction Craft Laborer, NCCER also revised its journey-level Hydroblasting Technician assessment and Performance Verification. Hydroblasting technicians must have familiarity with personal protective equipment, design specifications and the mechanical operations of hoses, shotguns and accessories. The assessment and Performance Verification evaluate a hydroblasting technician's ability to operate equipment such as shotguns, flex lances and stiff lances and his or her understanding of the safety aspects of equipment, such as relief valves, maximum operating capabilities, equipment ratings and limitations. Technicians are also evaluated on their awareness of associated hazards and conditions surrounding hydroblasting activities and how to properly perform equipment inspection of water filters, water conditions, equipment conditions and pre-task assessments prior to operation.

NCCER develops and publishes its curricula in partnership with leading textbook publisher Pearson. Assessments are developed in conjunction with Prov, NCCER's test development partner, and are designed to evaluate the journey-level knowledge of an individual in a specific craft area and provide a prescription for upgrade training when needed. A team of Subject Matter Experts representing industry and academia contribute to the development of training curricula, assessments and Performance Verifications to ensure they meet or exceed industry standards. Individuals who successfully complete these training and/or assessment programs through an NCCER Accredited organization will earn industry-recognized credentials through the NCCER Registry System. NCCER curricula comply with the Department of Labor's Office of Apprenticeship requirements for time-based training.
About: Featured
Brick by Brick: The Importance of Grit

In a world where many jobs are done with a click of a mouse, masonry workers are still out there, getting their hands dirty—literally. These folks build the walls that keep our roofs over our heads, often battling the elements, tight deadlines, and unexpe

By: Erin Laird
About: MAP Partner
Read More
Fechino Files: Welding

As a masonry contractor, welding typically falls into two categories: fabrication or repair. Fabrication is when our certified welders make structural connections on the job site, and repairs are just that—fixing one of the hundred things that break every

By: Steven Fechino
Read More
The Thompson Library - Ohio State University

The Thompson Library at Ohio State University is a landmark of historical and architectural significance. Its renovation, completed in 2009, was a comprehensive project that aimed to modernize the facility while preserving its historic character. The proj

By: Drew Rosengarten
About: Featured
Read More
The Haunting of the NYS Education Building: The Legend of Jason, the Mysterious Mason

As Halloween approaches, there’s no better time to delve into the eerie tales that haunt our historic buildings. One such story surrounds the New York State Education Building in Albany, NY—a towering structure steeped in history and mystery. Constructed

By: Cass Stern
About: Featured
Read More